Stephen Colbert's D&D Adventure with Matthew Mercer (Red Nose Day 2019)

[@criticalrole]

If you enjoyed our adventure with Stephen Colbert, please consider donating or sharing our Red Nose Day campaign!

[@will_danz]

Critical Role Love you Crit Role, love you Matt Mercer and Stephen Colbert!

[@arcadiadragon3410]

New York....doesn't bat a eye at a man in cloak walking into the ed Sullivan theater

[@savnet_sinn]

Damn right this earned my money.

[@Crashenty]

This was the absolute best thing to watch for red nose day! Thank you from the bottom of my heart Matt! And Steven: Well done! You're back in it! See you at the set of CriticalRole sometime!

[@samuelblackthorne9122]

Watching Matt smell dirt was something I didn't know I wanted.

[@MrAcuriteOf1337]

"Do not cite the Old Magic to me, witch. I was there in first edition"

[@aerongrimm3162]

That made me feel a lot of fucking things

[@yoindianbro]

*OLD MAGIC*

[@JakeConrad666]

Deep magic

[@klaytonrocks]

The TadPole Named Matt In ivory towers!

[@BerntSunde]

lol

[@copypastewhiteboy]

Imagine not playing for like 30 years and your first game back is DM'd by Matt Mercer.

[@lucasm.3864]

That's like a starving man's first meal being made by Gordon Ramsey.

[@magecraft2]

@@lucasm.3864 In my mind I missed the words "made by" in that sentence and did a double take :)

[@giuseppesiciliano4845]

Like losing your virginity to Scarlet Johansson or someting

[@stephencarmickle]

Imagine just having Matt Mercer be your DM at all...

[@AnimeWolf5193]

"Awaken, my child. You have slept for too long and adventure awaits."

[@simsamsammie]

I love veteran D&D players because they are suspicious of EVERYTHING

[@iancd9171]

Yup, it's like whatever the DM describes MUST be a trap. Don't trust the bridge !

[@bobloerakker7010]

My group debated for half an hour what they should do with this door in front of them...surely it is trapped or has an alarm...after 30 minutes the cleric just opened it..yeah it's just a door.

[@Theportraitdude]

They've seen things........so many things lol

[@TheIrishloon]

LOL, it’s not like current players aren’t also, at times, hilariously suspicious and looking for the secret. Let’s not forget....THE CHAIR.

[@arikapiera]

@@TheIrishloon chairkatoa!

[@linktothepassed]

"I haven't heard the word ichor in almost thirty years." "Welcome back."

[@Matt_the_pirate]

I absolutely loved that part!

[@sirreoser5668]

@@Matt_the_pirate The pure enjoyment in his face and how he leans forward was all so wholesome, you could tell the nostalgia hit hard

[@Sully0182]

It's a little bit like Han saying "Chewie we're home" huh? The nerdyness is amazing 😍🥰

[@linktothepassed]

@@Sully0182 Lol it really is. Beautifully pathetic xD

[@Jugg215]

the look on his face was great

[@MarionetteDuAuguste]

I love how you can tell exactly what kind of DM Colbert had when he was a teen based on how absolutely thorough and suspicious he is the entire time

[@thunderborn3231]

traps, traps everywhere\; the party laughs, the bartender laughs, the mimic laughs

[@kagato23]

@@thunderborn3231 Ya whiffed the joke son. It's "The party laughs, the bartender laughs, the table laughs.... so we killed the mimic. Good times."

[@brandonpeters9155]

Dude basic was a different world.

[@deanthompson88]

Im really envious of his original DM for having such an intelligent guy in the party, it must really keep you on your toes.

[@Rensune]

You HAD to be. Up until 2nd edition, really.

[@Padrino613]

The face Stephen makes when he realizes Matt is an incredible storyteller is priceless... he can't hold back the smiles.

[@boreduser99]

His face is so priceless. You can so clearly tell he is really enjoying this.

[@staceyjob8461]

I love how engaged he is. You see his eyes light up

[@lightup6751]

I love you for describing this moment. Thats exactly what happened. You can see his eyes light as someone said before me and him going back in time reliving his youth. Matthew is a legendary DM. This guy is full of creative magic and breathing life into so many characters. On DnD and the voices he gives to so many characters

[@TimStamper89]

He's one of the only American presenters I like as he's a genuine bloke and doesn't feign his enjoyment in things.

[@HellInternAKACandyMD]

I half expected Colberts' wife to barge in to break it up lol That's HER smile!

[@brandonveltre8326]

"I haven't heard the word 'ichor' in almost 30 years..." "Welcome back." Holy crap the feels.

[@trappedkitty5335]

And they both pronounced it incorrectly. Later, he schools Matt on the use of between stalactites and stalagmites. Everyone has something to learn - don't be a dick, Stephen. lol

[@tr1bute411]

@@trappedkitty5335 Teaching someone something is being a dick? :) Humanity is doomed.

[@rolandkushm.d.710]

@@trappedkitty5335 you spelled dork wrong. Don't be shunt lol.

[@JonathanOsborneAU]

@@trappedkitty5335 Not pronounced incorrectly, it has two pronunciations in the different englishes.

[@trappedkitty5335]

@@JonathanOsborneAU Since they are two Americans, it stands to reason that they would use the American pronunciation, then.

[@stevenarvizu3602]

Never played D&D even once, but to be honest I can see the appeal now It’s like listening to a story or watching a movie but all the parts where you go “I would’ve done X in that situation” you actually get to do X and see what happens

[@TheKyleMark]

Yes! And it can be a story told over years, with your best friends. Great memories.

[@sergiuconstantinescu8124]

I like this description of the game!

[@SujanraAcoma]

That’s pretty accurate. It’s also like playing a video game, but using your imagination and being able to do things the programmers and designers didn’t set up for you.

[@jasminleudesdorff3928]

EXACTLY! This is exactly how i explain it to New players.

[@ObeyCamp]

It's the "hardcore RPG video game" of a time before video games as we know them today.

[@joelgermany1236]

"Them some bones. Those are bones right there. Something died and those were inside them." Damn you Mercer. That shits hilarious.

[@browncoatkevin]

Those bones were rather boned after their unexpected boners.

[@danieljorgensen4937]

Life needs bones to live

[@vladanugrica9177]

Sorry for being so numb but I literally coughed real hard while reading this. this was sooo goood!

[@Edenshex_official]

They feel like bones, boney bones that feels boney.

[@numbernine5894]

28:55

[@Prince_Luci]

Stephen was a devout catholic who played DND during the satanic panic. Wow.

[@WhiteTiger950]

Maybe he didn't worry overly about it because it's clearly NOT satanic. It's a game of interactive storytelling! It's just good fun, and likely quite beneficial for improving imagination and creativity.

[@Prince_Luci]

WhiteTiger950 definitely. I’m just saying it was a weird time.

[@WhiteTiger950]

@@Prince_Luci Yeah, perhaps, sadly that stigma that it created against D&D and such, remains to this day. Steering some away from what is actually a rather good game!

[@DarthBorehd]

Most of that "Satanic Panic" was (is still?) spread by Protestant Evangelicals who are also against Catholics. My grandmother got upset over me playing D&D after she read a Chic tract she found in a bathroom. After chic put out an anti-Catholic tract too, she decided he was full of crap and backed off.

[@SilverHawk214]

My Dad was too and never stopped playing even when his sisters started telling other church members. He knew it was just a game and ignored everyone telling him to stop.

[@raphsere]

"Matt says that it's a one-off" Liam O'Brien, 2013 6 years later, Matt Mercer is playing D&D with Stephen Colbert.

[@Taygon45]

Colbert as a guest would be amazing

[@MrBrabbzy]

@@Taygon45 bet

[@C_Bat]

Wait...... they say this is a one-off. Is history going to repeat itself?

[@Inglescomgus]

It's quite amazing how that ONE game became a nerd empire!

[@BenoHourglass]

Two years later, a full animated series.

[@adrianstonge4793]

Just for people who don't know: Eric the Half-Bee is a Monty Python sketch. Stephen really is a geek.

[@elbruces]

Matt caught that reference instantly.

[@ElderBard00]

I need to see those sketches

[@raggarex]

And I thought he was naming him after Eric B.

[@chuckt4558]

I was saying to myself "please name him Eric, please name him Eric' YES!!!

[@apollomars1678]

but now.....

[@patrickbuckley7259]

Colbert: throwing the stones at the Imp... Me: Yeah, he's a veteran.

[@simmonslucas]

Oh yeah, it was really cool to see all the player paranoia come back to him. lol

[@neji2401]

it's incredible to see how different the playstile of veterans is

[@Heritage367]

@@neji2401 this is very true. Older players are almost like hardened vets.

[@kindle9597]

You know he only used stones because he didn't have his 10 foot pole on him

[@willb5278]

@@kindle9597 You fool! Use an 11 foot one, otherwise you're in range of the 10ft acid sprays and other traps

[@unthoughtwords]

'Them's some bones. Some bones right there. Something died, and those were in them' Cracked up :'D

[@ulfragnarsson]

Around 28:55

[@Kaiju_Inc]

That moment alone made this SO worth watching! God, Matt is such a godlike DM.

[@Mr.Monster1984]

Lol

[@IronResistance]

Makes me miss Grog, that shit would always happen when Grog asked something simple xD

[@Marscow]

Stephen taking notes during a 1 hour one-off must make any DMs watching this shed a tear of pride.

[@JohnSmith-ox3gy]

Was waiting for him to poke everything with a 5 foot pole.

[@JohnSmith-ox3gy]

Drunken Kerbalnaut Makes sense since you want to be as far from the trap as possible.

[@JackJaigus]

​@Ollie B That's the joke.

[@ozpin8329]

"Does the blade give off any light or anything?" "Would you like to will it to?" This is such an amazing display of being a DM. It's such a small thing but in that moment Matt gives it to him because he can tell Stephen wants to, and mechanically it changes nothing in the encounter. You have to let your players do stuff like this to get them instantly invested in the moment.

[@SquidCoder]

Bro, did you see Colbert's face too? Priceless.

[@709mash]

A great example of suspension of disbelief on both party's. Shows when a good game comes together.

[@RossCastro]

It's also important to note how this is also an instance of the DM understanding not only what their player wants from the game but what stories are influencing them. Matt is well aware that Stephen is a huge Tolkien fan so while this may seem like a small thing, this is actually a huge moment of fantasy wish fulfillment for Stephen which Matt immediately recognizes and let's him play out so Stephen can have his Hobbit glowing sword moment. It's highly possible that just this little moment would later influence Stephen to use invisibility on himself later on at the end of the encounter instead of just directly attacking the Lich because he was fully invested in emulating The Hobbit now that he realized he could. That's why it's important to know what stories and characters your players love and resonate with because they're bound to try to emulate elements of those stories and characters while they're playing through your game. Letting your players do this will not only make them more invested but will motivate them to interact even MORE with your game.

[@LeMayJoseph]

Great point!

[@ODUBlue]

@@RossCastro I thought the same thing immediately. I actually hoped he would say the blade had a blue glow 😊

[@WTFM]

Dear Stephen Colbert, Please free up a Thursday and grace the table Sincerely, EVERYONE

[@C_Bat]

I mean... he has a show, but when he's on HIATUS!!!

[@DetectiveLance]

@Sean Fisher And considering his long time known status as an LotR fanboy, it wouldn't be out of character for the man....It'd be hard to get the producers on board.

[@Theportraitdude]

People would lose their frickin minds

[@SUZE.]

This must be copied and pasted to Stephen Colbert's twitter till he goes mad!!!

[@secondsun6963]

Would you look at that...the m9 seem to be missing a bard....hmmmm

[@CoolSenpai]

"Is he armed?" "Uuh, he has arms." Mercer, you cheeky bastard you

[@daanwilmer]

It also sounds like a very Stephen Colbert thing to say.

[@taylovesfun]

Now just imagine that the M9 go back to the Menagerie Coast and hear tales of a bard bringing positivity and generosity to any in need and they stumble into him and then Stephen Colbert sits down in the guest spot

[@TharnsGirl]

A collective squeal of joy would erupt across the world.

[@abracadabra2395]

@@TharnsGirl Literally... I would squeal so high pitched I'd scare my cats. For my cats' sake, maybe he shouldn't. Then again... they'd get over it. lol

[@ellabellav5939]

Everyone would burst with joy

[@solaire773]

FUCK YES THIS NEEDS TO HAPPEN

[@kevinbrink423]

For the love of all mercies, please make this happen!

[@joelg598]

It is amazing. This video literally changed my life two years ago. I went from never playing D&d, to watching critical role, to making a crap ton of new friends...and now DMing 2 campaigns. Couldn’t be more grateful for these two guys.

[@annafantasia]

THIS IS THE BEST YAYYYY

[@varenoftatooine2393]

He'll yeah man, that's awesome.

[@WildGuyNate]

Welcome, brother.

[@kohakunushi3028]

How's your campaign going bro

[@thenymphomancer5592]

A different video for me but same result. Lover of fantasy but never dnd’d and now running the campaign for 7 people. 2 of which are huge vets and everyone seems to be having a blast.

[@TheJmren]

The face of pure joy come across Stephen's face is so genuine. It is awesome.

[@AaronLitz]

That's the face of someone remembering the joy of D&D who is soon going to start up a new weekly campaign! :)

[@CLSMandalore]

That may have been my favorite part! Just how sincere and happy he is playing

[@dantekennedy3810]

I agree. That face of genuine joy is the face anyone playing D&D should get when they get sucked into this fanatical world. It literally made me tear up when I saw Stephen's face light up.

[@thamapleboi]

I was debating whether or not I believed he played before. But that smile during battle. That was a "hello old friend" if I've ever seen one

[@countsnowyofgwainn3996]

i agree, the first time i played was years back and it was something along the lines of DnD but that was how i got my feet wet into the hobby. it warmed my heart to see that glow in his eyes. as lorddingleberry said it pretty much on the "nose". i loved this this was great to watch ^^

[@T1J]

This is really a master class on how to design a short one shot for a new or inexperienced player.

[@zachmanson3319]

T1J plays DnD, can this man get more perfect.

[@GarfieldiusPrime]

@@zachmanson3319 this was the best type of surprise.

[@justsomeguywhoedits4387]

What's a one shot?

[@sneakerbabeful]

@@justsomeguywhoedits4387 It's a campaign that's played in one game session. Most campaigns are played over multiple gaming sessions, over multiple days.

[@patientfirbolg3299]

A wild T1J appears...

[@KappaKiller108]

Colbert helped me through childhood cancer. In a very real way I was granted a request from "Make a Wish". I wanted to go on a trip to NYC with my family. While there I got to see African musicians preform on his show and I was able to meet him in his office after the show. I'll never forget how genuinely nice he was, he let me play with his Lord of The Rings pinball machine and look at his armor set. Looking back now I can tell HE was more nervous than me, but I hope he knows that I always treasured that memory and that I'm ok now.

[@iamallamaninja]

GoombaGenocide thats so fucking wholesome

[@matt.oconnor]

Thanks for sharing

[@Chas-OTE]

That is cool man! Now to my actual question: hich armor set does he keep on... ummm... set? Is it elven armor? It's elven armor isn't it?

[@lukesguywalker]

i’m so glad you’re ok now 🥺🥺🥺

[@MrAhhh33]

Awesome story!! Happy to hear you recovered. Thanks for sharing!

[@SergioR00]

Who else felt so scared for Eric when they heard he only had 1hp

[@flynn8845]

Hhahhahaha.. yeah

[@etherealhawk]

Tfw 2 damage is massive damage

[@hennylaundry4912]

I thought Stephen was going to shed a tear

[@mikegarza8648]

Thankfully true Familiars can be resummoned. If you have an hour some supplies and 10 gold.

[@queruba.]

@@mikegarza8648 But unfortunately Eric was companion, not a familiar

[@lukevera3117]

'Also called throwing shade, so it's a darkness spell', oh Stephen, you nerd

[@Arrynek01]

Oh my... Stephen's smile as he listens to the story. You can see the boy in him waking up. I love it so much.

[@RenierRivas]

Arrynek01 i think hos eyes even glazed of the happiness he felt.

[@Dani-fs5ty]

I was coming to the comments to say the same. The light in his eyes is of sheer child’s delight. It’s hard not to get wrapped up in Matt’s storytelling.

[@stormbard]

It’s a bit sad his schedule is so full, I bet he’d love to play more if he had the time.

[@joeland87]

“I hope we can do this again sometime.” So do all critters Stephen. Guest on critical role!

[@WhiffleWaffles]

From what I can tell him being in NY and having a late night show might make it impossible, but I don't think it would be in the end if he did a one shot in NY or a schedule compromise or he can include it in his show, etc. I'm not entirely sure what he does but just seen some debate on other xomments.

[@stephenjackman984]

@@WhiffleWaffles Well, the Late Show has been known to go on the occasional 1-2 week breaks while Colbert and crew go on vacation. It wouldn't be unreasonable to think he may fly his family to California to visit Disneyland, then take an evening (oh, let's say, Thursday) to roll some dice with friends. Regardless, I loved watching Stephen's passion for the game reignite over the course of the session and hope we somehow get to see more of that.

[@deadmanmouse2463]

Please come back Stephen

[@NicoAtNight]

Dream guest. This one-shot makes it seem possible. Colbert's got the bug!

[@maybepolly_]

he could definitely skype too, hopefully, maybe. i just think he'd be so good in critical role pleaaaase he's been talking about d&d for years LET HIM PLAY

[@sunshinepurple1043]

THIS EPISODE is how I discovered CR. I'm about Stephen's age. Embarrassingly I bought into the santanic panic. My then husband played often and it became a sore point in our marriage. Had I known what the game was really about, problem solving, killing demins, and righting wrongs, I would have played alongside him. Thank you for opening my eyes.

[@Kaiser8361N]

Dang that’s sad

[@snivimort]

I wish everyone was able to realize their misjudgments this easily.

[@Tamaki742]

There's also an opportunity to play an evil campaign, where you're the villain. But really, none of it is real, it's just like in theatre. On your table.

[@ClandestineSnowman]

@@Tamaki742 Yeah, it's important that D&D offers limitless possibilities, including the chance to do evil - but it's all within your control, there's no malevolent influence behind it at all.

[@geniumme2502]

Its impressive how openly you state and correct your misjudgment and acknowledge its consequences. That's a great ability to exercise.

[@Just4UGaming]

“You can certainly try” 2 seconds later “He can’t do it, he’s a bee”

[@eamonmulholland3159]

21:58 for those wondering.

[@MrChocolateDinosaur]

That's good DM'ing right there

[@kyleh1919]

Matt never tells his players "no". We all knew the bee wouldn't be able to carry a rope but that's the fun in D&D is you can certainly try anything your imagination can think of.

[@user-ur4nl6dq2x]

If Eric had got a nat 20 that rope would've been stretched across that chasm, tied with a sailor's knot, and turned into surrealist art. Lesson: always let your players try, because they sometimes may surprise you XD

[@Vugen18]

@@user-ur4nl6dq2x or learn a thing or 2

[@pairot01]

The faces Stephen made throughout the narrative parts are priceless. This man felt things he hadn't felt in decades.

[@ryujitzu3547]

the face he makes when he finds out cantrips are infinite is pure OG dnd.

[@JT-ho6rp]

You never forget your first session. You're confused but you're having a blast.

[@snowbjorne]

right?!

[@snowbjorne]

@@JT-ho6rp this wasnt his first, but his first since college! Even better :D

[@nighteyeswolf]

Colbert's instinct to grab his notepad to jot down notes warms my geek heart

[@MarceloEid]

YES !

[@NameHierEinfuegen]

His reaction to the very first skill check (the perception one) was to draw his sword. He knows what he's doing :D.

[@709mash]

@@NameHierEinfuegen yup lol. DM's back in the day were brutal. You had to be super deliberate in every action, for better or worse.

[@AngelusDarkshadows]

@@709mash I was fortunate enough to be a DM for AD&D 2ed... And yes, I was brutal with my players. To be fair, the dice were quite brutal too. Rolling for characters meant that potentially you were stuck with a really shitty char until it was time to roll again. And it was very often you had to roll new characters. You didn't get too much roleplay either (this is why you can see Stephen being a bit guarded against roleplaying his bard) cause who would want to RP a character that most likely will be dead in the next session? That's right, no one. So that's also the reason why instinctively he drew his sword the moment he heard the growls. One mistake back then would mean reroll character cause of instant death.

[@Ssarevok]

Matt's monologue at the start: "Conclaves and cows, goldfish and gnolls..." I love the references to Critical role there. :D

[@maryhales4595]

"I go into a cow rage and start chewing faster."

[@ArenKae]

Get someone who looks at you the same way Stephen Colbert looks at Matt Mercer.

[@j.d.3597]

He was like a child meeting Santa Clause! He was so transfixed and hanging on his every word!!!

[@timkinss]

Alternatively, get an actual relationship of some kind. Not a tumblr one.

[@svenbrede6151]

@@timkinss pfft, get real. Haha Haha Haha ...

[@hole-sawbear1500]

@@svenbrede6151 I can feel the creeping loneliness radiating from my screen. xD

[@svenbrede6151]

@@hole-sawbear1500 xD will see if i can change that on the weekend.

[@h0bg0blin95]

if stephen doesn't mention this on the late show and go on a tangent about d&d *i will rage*

[@shinankoku2]

justanerd ^^^this!^^^

[@XoRandomGuyoX]

Didn't Stephen discuss Joe's D&D dungeon and show pictures? Seems he'd be a bit remiss to not mention this on the show in some form or other.

[@0Fyrebrand0]

Found the barbarian!

[@paulmorales1607]

He didn't. This was on Tuesday. The monologue did include a dnd joke but nothing else

[@MsWells]

Paul Morales maybe he was waiting for this to air as well?

[@BobMotster]

I'm conflicted on who's benefiting more from this meeting - Steve who gets to relive his youth or Matt who soaks in every word of the stories about D&D's early days. Or maybe it's us watching two grown up men feel the bliss of childhood once more in a very special way.

[@Atlas_Forge]

Yes. The answer is yes 🤓

[@savageoldman]

wish i could thumbs up more than once, cause i was thinking the same at the end of the adventure as i thought about what just happened

[@zemorph42]

All of the above.

[@trodat07]

Bob Motster most likely, Matt’s benefits the most. Colbert’s his favourite person ever.

[@fancyform]

Everyone wins during this session. :)

[@yeahright3630]

*Matt:* describes Villian and voices it with pure talent *Stephen:* stunned in awe *Me:* Ahhh, you must be new here...

[@dhaisley]

‘Those are some bones. Something died there and those were in them ‘ Rofl Matt you’re awesome

[@engerek666]

Matt is surely amazing. That's one of the parts that made me laugh so hard. His narrative skills are one of a kind.

[@Zack_Taylor]

29:00

[@irian42]

Stephen Colbert (with red nose): "I am so... back in. It only took one adventure and... I am so back in. Hope we can do this again some time!" So do we, Stephen, so do we!

[@jazzvieadnan3779]

wait it's not even an hour yet and you've finished watching?

[@irian42]

@@jazzvieadnan3779 And that's why I have no success with the ladies... 😉

[@jazzvieadnan3779]

@@irian42 lol nah dude you just gotta git urself a DnD freak, they exist hahah

[@MelodicQuest]

All it took was one adventure for me too

[@fardycakes1606]

I know Stephen is probably ridiculously busy, but I hope this opens the way for him to guest on Critical Role at some point. Stephen would have a blast, and I'm sure the cast would too.

[@xaphanYT]

17:32 "I haven't heard the word 'ichor' in almost 30 years..." "Welcome back"

[@mikeg8564]

Welcome home :)

[@charsiuwu8084]

I teared up hard there ...

[@andarus2798]

You can see Stephen's mind rapidly trying to convert on the fly between his native understanding of Advanced D&D and the new language and mechanics of 5E. Its interesting to watch the similarities and differences being experienced rather than just described in comparison. Major props to Colbert for taking that major leap, and huge credit to Matt for his comprehensive knowledge of all editions to make the jarring transition as seamless as possible. Its no easy thing guiding someone through their options while also trying to keep the choices and player knowledge their own.

[@709mash]

Luckily as well it's 5e, as it's really well streamlined to help people get going. Stephen picked a great time, and a great DM to try d&d again.

[@abigailgreer7144]

Congratulations to Matt for having his dreams come true

[@Frellnikky]

For real, this is twice as enjoyable knowing Matt's realising a dream of his

[@TheDangerousWonder]

Abigail Greer I’ve been so happy all week for Matt!!

[@Pegaryx]

I believe a dream for both of them, seeing as Stephen mentioned DnD multiple times on his show. I was sooo psyched for this video!

[@Dogsplaza]

I believe it's also Stephen's wish too as he also wanted to get back into the game.

[@brocka.6479]

@cak01vej Matt running a one-shot for Lin and the good good McElroy boys (and dad). MBMBaM/Adventure Zone/Critical Role mash-up.

[@BetweenDD]

Matt: We begin in the hot summer months of the Menagerie Coast of Wildemount. Me: IT'S CANON!!! :D :D

[@abracadabra2395]

I had the same thought! You know Mercer did this in case Colbert ever even slightly considered guest starring on Critical Role. LOL... Mercer is an amazing DM, but he has said more than once that he fan boys over Colbert (which is well deserved... I mean, me too, buddy!). It was a brilliant move by Mercer and... now we wait, fingers crossed, breath held... like me at the age of 12, hoping the house phone would ring and that cute person I was crushing on would call. In this case, its Colbert. Call us Critters, Colbert! Please! lol

[@toonezon4836]

I really hope this is within a half century of campaign 2 & the M9 can go back to the managery cost & hopefully cross paths with Capo, the lost Marx brother. His other, human half brothers never mentioned him out of jealousy or somthimg

[@Gryphon2026]

I know! I was like ohh dang this could be canon! lol it was so much fun watching Steve's face as he was playing, seeing the joy it brought him and Matt too! I enjoyed this so much!

[@jenovapooh]

Man, what if he showed up the next time they have a live show in NYC?

[@toonezon4836]

@@jenovapooh my thoughts exactly, just finished and asked almost the exact same question.

[@dagan2000]

you can tell Stephen is an old school player. sword out, loot the body and always be cautious of the scenery.

[@HeyyItsDaleVODS]

You mean those arent usual things to do currently?

[@piperaid]

@@HeyyItsDaleVODS not anymore, its all "I dropkick the door" these days

[@timd4524]

What body did he loot?

[@1337Rellik]

@@timd4524 the undead panther in the beginning

[@timd4524]

@@1337Rellik oh that thing. You'll never know what you could find. Don't you investigate things you've killed? I mean if you fought a Mage and killed him would you just walk away or check to see if there was some goodies? It's very much the same game as it was in the 70's. Just different mechanics. I've never seen a game where anybody walked away from a dragon's hoard. Also, the panther jumped him first.

[@yiklinkhoo]

Love how Stephen is really playing and not just trying to be funny. You can tell he is really an old hand at this ...just a bit unfamiliar with the newer edition rules.

[@mildlysober6219]

I love Stephen’s face throughout. He’s just as mesmerized as all of us at Mercer’s descriptions.

[@strikerrey6016]

It's awesome how giddy he is about the whole thing.

[@superultragamer8245]

Jeffrey Bergeron, they both are! It’s so awesome!

[@misterjoshua5720]

Rattles off book release dates, history facts of the hobby, knows how classes worked 4 editions ago... Takes ten minutes to think up a character name. That is top D&D

[@BasementRuthie]

Everyone knows that names have power. ;)

[@siristheslayer1923]

One doesn’t pick a name lightly

[@thecamelchannel1467]

this is truly iconic and if you say it's not you're lying

[@skullsquad900]

Best way to make a character name: Think of a Two Word insult, then, Translate it to Latin. XD

[@jodymarkgraf7625]

@@skullsquad900 will earnestly try your method 🤓

[@marshroverv5632]

"Is he armed?" "Uhm well, he has arms, but there are no weapons visible."

[@abracadabra2395]

I LOL'ed at that comment and also knew right away that he is a magic user and Mercer was thinking about him not needing a weapon to be "armed." Very punny, Mercer!

[@LeMayJoseph]

When he was asked what he fights for, and Stephen responded, "To alleviate the poverty of children," MY HEART

[@donosborne9086]

I was not prepared to be emotionally invested in Eric the bee.

[@pandapowerfist1900]

Same ... but it happened 😭

[@silromen42]

I'm half-convinced this is a Monty Python reference.

[@jennttaylor]

@@silromen42 kzbin.info/www/bejne/g53VpKR9ltFpatk

[@weirdunclebob]

I've always had a soft spot for Eric the Half-a-Bee. Not sure about this full bee, though...

[@shagua2]

Eric tried so hard, got so far, and in the end, it didn’t even matter 😭

[@JustinSmith1287]

Anyone else notice Colbert get emotional while Matt was doing the intro to the adventure? I'm sure there was a massive wave of nostalgia that hit him.

[@GAClive]

I got emotional just watching the joy on Colbert's face. It was a beautiful moment.

[@Kaotiqua]

YES! He lit _UP_ -it was like you could _see_ him becoming 16 again. :D

[@OctopusOwl]

I realized I had the EXACT same smile on while Mercer was doing the intro. You can't help but get emotional. :)

[@metanumia]

Yes, his eyes teared up a little bit when he said to Matt (something along the lines of): "you have no idea what kinds of feelings this is bringing up in me right now". What a touching moment! You can tell Colbert really loves D&D and has fond memories of playing it as a younger man. :)

[@magiv4205]

Stephen: *smiles like a child seeing a unicorn* Me: *thinks it's because of the description* Stephen: "I haven't heard the word 'ichor' in almost 30 years" Matt: "Welcome back." Goddammit why am I getting emotional wtf. This is so wholesome.

[@jerryharris876]

I love how he's taking notes during the ghost's talking. It might have been a long time since he's played, but he is experienced enough to remember to do that.

[@nicolesong6199]

why?

[@SuperDi_]

​@@nicolesong6199 taking notes isnt super essential in a short one-shot like this one, but in games across days, weeks and months you need to write down what you know. Let's say some character gives you critical information on the enemy you're about to fight, but disappears afterwards. If you didn't write down what that information was and forget about it you're gonna be in deep shit and it might end your adventures with an early death.

[@RJay207]

"Through conclaves and cows; goldfish and gnolls..." Memorygasm.

[@stevenshatswell53]

Good old Chroma Conclave and Key-fish

[@RJay207]

@@stevenshatswell53 "I go into a cow-rage and start chewing faster." - Grog

[@PaTcHiZzEl]

REGULAR GNOLL, REGULAR GNOLL

[@CathrineMacNiel]

goldfish thinks that she is a god, eh? :D

[@chantalperez7815]

Vox MOOOchina love

[@RPG_Angie]

I came to enjoy Matt's happiness at getting to DM for Stephen Colbert. I didn't expect it to be overshadowed by Stephen's happiness at playing D&D again. You've made that man so happy, Matt.

[@SpydersByte]

ditto.

[@mirtos39]

same here. this was so great.

[@Akappy]

100% It was just so genuine and great to watch. Nostalgia is so powerful.

[@NorthWriter]

I know!! Stephen looks SOOOOOOOOO happy! I'm almost getting emotional watching these two awesome people enjoying each other and enjoying the game so much!

[@Maluga06]

Great DMing man

[@brandonbuchner1771]

When i heard about this i was worried that Colbert would just goof off and not take it "seriously." Boy was i wrong. He was SO in. I loved the glee on his face as he played. Just awesome.

[@locorocky1]

I mean, Stephens a Nerd of the First Order. I was honestly shocked when i heard how ling it had been since he last played

[@vaibhavguptawho]

Yeah that would be Conan who behaves that way. Colbert is nerd nobility.

[@buckosoft]

There is zero chance, even for comedy, that Colbert would not use the opportunity to validate and exalt his nerd cred.

[@709mash]

@@buckosoft he brought his own troll! He was already off to a great start lol.

[@Hugh_Mungus_Johnson]

@@vaibhavguptawho Yeah somebody like Conan would just half joke, half mock the whole time. I'm glad Colbert took it seriously and respected it.

[@squared231]

Man, I wish my friends played as Stephen Colbert did. He was very smart about what action's he did, asked questions, and remembered key details about the plot. Also, if I had the DMing skills that Matt had, that would be cool too

[@Heritage367]

He took notes, which to me is a key sign of a sharp player. I always forget to take notes ☹️

[@sottosopravoce]

I learned a lot from watching him play.

[@HN-qc8io]

As a DM, I will die for my note taking players. They make my work so worth it.

[@luvmewoad3484]

Play Basic then

[@Miranda_Ghost]

Stephen, regarding a cocked die: "It didn't quite do the thing..." (This is lovely.)

[@justthebestaround1200]

Matt: *describes villain in detail with a fun voice* Stephen: :D

[@ashleedugan2875]

You can see the respect and admiration start to grow in Stephen's face as he witnesses the Mercer Effect. A one-on-one D&D session sounds incredibly intimidating and uncomfortable, especially with two strangers. But Matt's charm, expert storytelling, and clear love of the game quickly breaks down all walls. This was such a delight to watch. Great job, Matt. Thank you for all you do.

[@demonicgrub1025]

I mean, not between two strangers necessarily, but 1 on 1 sessions are super fun. I run them for my buddy from time to time, and you can really customize the challenge around what your player can, and wants to do.

[@JayStryerTheDeadWizard]

one-on-one sessions aren't intimidating or uncomfortable at all though.

[@Luckyyshot]

@@demonicgrub1025 Heey, if you ever want to have another 1-on-1 just say so. Always wanted to try it, but considering there being so many more players than DM's, it's hard finding someone willing to do it.

[@thatHARVguy]

Due to logistics I understand the 1 on 1 session. It does prime Stephen for a potential group session.

[@ashleedugan2875]

I feel like there's a whole lot of attention on the one-on-one aspect of my comment. That was... not the point. It's awesome if you personally find success with it. As a DM, my opinion happens to be that it sounds intimidating. Sounds. Not that it is. So, really - it's great if you enjoy it, and I liked having the chance to see it be successful. But the point I was trying to make was that the whole scenario could have been incredibly intimidating for a DM. There were many reasons for it to feel that way. The celebrity guest, the crunched time, the generational difference (thus small learning curve), etc. But (and this is my true point of the comment) Matt handles all of that with charm and expertise. I'm always impressed by Matt during Critical Role. I'm delighted to have witnessed even more reasons to be impressed by him here.

[@alfa-foxtrot]

Matt playing a bee is one of the best things I've ever seen in my life.

[@benvoliothefirst]

OF COURSE he can do a pitch-perfect impression of a bee, after having just watched him do a hamster the other day. Nothing surprises me anymore!

[@gideonthelion4023]

@@benvoliothefirst My friend, this is Matthew Mercer we're talking about, there will always be a new surprise every now and then. 😂

[@Quadraxis]

I love how into the game Stephen gets. This, ladies and gentlemen, is the walking Tolkien encyclopedia getting to live out a teenage dream at the hands of a master DM.

[@Krabbykrabbkrabb]

Hi! Do u have anyone who night want their dnd character illustrated ? I'm open for commissions

[@AndradeFacu]

@@Krabbykrabbkrabb here! how much?

[@carlako3238]

@@Krabbykrabbkrabb hello, I would also be interested

[@Krabbykrabbkrabb]

My rate is $2 usd per hour. I can send you samples

[@quakerdevil08]

The best part? Stephen Colbert is now canon in the CR Universe.

[@ix.of.swords4360]

C R O S S O V E R ? ? ?

[@C_Bat]

Some day the M9 would meet up with him in Exandria

[@Halbam]

@@C_Bat Could you imagine the danger of Jester possessing the Hype Sword?

[@piercewise1]

Yes! Can you imagine Capo meeting up with the M9 on the Menagerie Coast?!?

[@Eryomis]

@@Halbam That's... That's terrifying.

[@DichotomousRex]

I never thought I'd be the guy writing the "this helped through depression" but damn am I having a tough time and damn the joy on Stephen's face is a balm

[@wanderingwind6602]

I'm thinking about you and hope you're doing well these days. Depression can be a bitch 💜

[@Whiskypapa]

Hoping things are better now. And if not, I hope it’s been long enough for you to have forgotten most of this video so you can watch it again by getting this notification:)

[@framedkraken7403]

-is he ARMED? -Well, He has ARMS, but has no weapons visible *soft gigle* Matt is so PURE

[@MrYoneta1]

You could actually hear Marisha trying to hold herself from loling (42:16)

[@Arelenedhel]

@@MrYoneta1 was she filming?

[@MrYoneta1]

@@Arelenedhel Don't think she was holding the camera. But she was there for sure probably directing it.

[@uninterruptedrhythm4104]

@@Arelenedhel Marisha is the Creative Director of Critical Role so maybe?

[@jeancrochets]

Stephen looks so enchanted while listening to Matt. It's amazing to see.

[@FictionRaider007]

And Matt looks so enchanted to be in the same room as Stephen Colbert.

[@Yorviing]

Jean Smith when Colbert started to smile when Mercer was describing the mad mage, I knew he was going to enjoy Mercer’s DMing

[@Gredran]

I was so worried he’d be underwhelmed, but as anyone who experiences matt, they are INSTANTLY spellbound. I'm so glad colbert was no exception

[@i-am-your-conscience]

Yes from like 11:11 you can see how he suddenly goes into a rather sentimental looking smile :) I am sure memories came back up and he is infected again with the D&D virus :)

[@ambiej123]

I screenshot two of his daydreamy smiles- I understand now why Marisha tweeted about his smiles

[@GalvTheImpressive]

Colbert: "Is he armed?" Mercer: "He has arms..." LMAO

[@HydropolisCity]

I think that was Matt's saying that this guy might use his arms/hands to cast spells in a "hint, hint" sort of way.

[@Kantilvih]

Or it is a joke that happens at every rpg table eventually 😀

[@Exiled_Rouge]

That was some of Mercer's best work; I would go so far as to say this is a masterclass on DMing a solo game. The purpose of the game is to bring delight to the participants.

[@JohnGalTHM]

The most relatable thing about this? Matt: "And now you get to choose your character's name" Stephen: *solid 15 minutes of silence with an intensely focused expression*

[@tomsparrow1823]

Yet he still chooses Caypo. (Kaypo? Capo? Is there a transcript to this somewhere??)

[@garymiles8900]

@@tomsparrow1823 A capo is a device a musician uses on the neck of a stringed (typically fretted) instrument to shorten the playable length of the strings-hence raising the pitch. It is a common tool for players of guitars, mandolins, mandolas, banjos, ...

[@tomsparrow1823]

@@garymiles8900 Thats cool but it still sounds silly

[@idontwanttopickone]

I literally thought he said his name was Drace. Then I realised he was just reading the word race.

[@mathunit1]

@@tomsparrow1823 It's silly in a good way.

[@divinityquartz3428]

that moment when you realized that the internet voted for him to have a bee purely to have Matt buzz the whole time

[@stratigangames508]

The bee and bard

[@Gilladan]

@@stratigangames508 of course the internet would want Matt to narrate a story about the bards and the bees

[@p_eople6789]

@@Gilladan I am new to D&D and this is making me smile.

[@peterh7086]

I lowkey was hoping he would name the bee CBG

[@Spn-rh1si]

and that he was sad he lost his bee that had been voted his companion 30 minutes ago

[@Chachi_Sanchez]

IMMEADIATELY AFTER 1st kill: Colbert: " I check the corpse for stuff......." Old Habits Die Hard

[@shino4242]

He is truly one of us.

[@abracadabra2395]

I had the same thought. There were so many little give aways that he's played before. It was really cool to see that the 1977 version of D&D created some of the same habits I have, playing Pathfinder for the past 4 years or so. :)

[@Vospader21]

47:36 Stephen is genuinely sad at what happened to his bee. That’s how you know he’s invested.

[@DaCliffBar]

It also reflects Matt Mercer's ability to roleplay a valued companion and good storytelling

[@SandraMills]

Matt: *tries explaining the game mechanics* Stephen: LET'S JUST TALK ABOUT NERD STUFF MY MAN This is just perfect. Congratulations folks!

[@ljaquos]

I swear to God that is so me and my DM. Like we try to talk about a single character or backstory we wanna get right and we just spiral into talking about everything we've ever nerded about. Absolute disaster.

[@SandraMills]

LegalWrights I love that 😂

[@animusnocturnus7131]

Yeah, they acted like every D&D nerd ever. (*_*)

[@Calmputer]

29:03 "Dem some bones! It's Some... Some bones right there on that floor. Something died, and those were in them." That delivery just kills me every time.

[@kasiamleczarska9078]

I went back just to hear that again 🤣

[@maryhales4595]

I love Matt 😂😂

[@panpolypuff]

The descriptions players get on a failed check are always the best.

[@Mighty_Meng]

“I haven’t heard the word ‘ichor’ in almost 30 years.” “Welcome back.” Lmao

[@shobruno]

And his face!!

[@bezretmet]

what minute was this in?

[@lemmingrad]

I was almost expecting “it’s actually pronounced, EYE-chor.”

[@nacurit]

A year later i'm coming back to say this was where I discovered D&D and Critical Role. i've caught up on episode 113 of campaign 2 recently and can say it's one of the single greatest sources of fun in my life XD

[@Bigandrewm]

Hail Vecna!

[@annafantasia]

Aaaaaa this is the best!! I'm legit so happy for you, I only found it a couple of years ago myself and the show and the game bring so much joy

[@silk2612]

As I'm sure you know, it's a gem!

[@MisterTingles]

that moment when Stephen realizes Matt has drawn him in, and there is no hope of escape, of not becoming a kid again.... that's why we're here.

[@agencymenace1090]

Matt: *explains suggestion* Stephen: *PURE EXCITEMENT*

[@TheBoardgamist]

*Colbert flashes back 30 years and looks to camera* “Don’t get on that fucking bridge... that is what I’ve learnt”

[@JohnSmith-ox3gy]

What is your favourite colour?

[@alexanderwilkins222]

@@JohnSmith-ox3gy what's the answer that doesn't kill me?🤣

[@Chiller31916]

@@alexanderwilkins222 knowing the air-speed velocity of an unladen swallow and the capital of Assyria will probably help XD

[@tazrothdurrhexen1283]

Never seen Stephen look so happy as he did during nearly every description.

[@Link_Ezzie]

Watching Stephen look at Matt with an increasing sense of wonder, going all heart-eyes, is the best thing ever.

[@mysterchick02]

A sentient sword that acts as a Bard's hype man. Matt Mercer you are amazing lol

[@Bolazer]

The Liar's Blade by Tim Pratt Check it

[@PristineTX]

That was something that was voted on and chosen by the people who donated.

[@Meatallic]

"I haven't heard the word 'ichor' in 30 years!" I love this

[@TheBloodypimp]

Isn't it ichter ?

[@toastyghosty4351]

@@TheBloodypimp no

[@lemontreemon218]

@@cuy50 its more cool if you read it as EEEKORR

[@alsymphony7868]

Colbert's smile when matt details the scene is awesome

[@Gordyan_Knot]

Dude, *I* got goosebumps when Stephen said that this was taking him back. I can't even imagine how amazing that must have been for Matt to hear.

[@karllee2593]

That’s blood in the water for a DM. You know you can pull the player in deeper now.

[@trose4837]

CAN WE TALK ABOUT MATT HAVING A PERFECT BEE VOICE?!

[@WhiffleWaffles]

Matt and other voice actors and professionals need to be recognized for these perfect skills. Some sound effects in older cartoons were made by the voices of directors and voice actors.

[@hubberducky]

he has a perfect every voice

[@DanReeder1337]

seemed more like a mosquito voice imo

[@fictionmyth]

@@DanReeder1337 Don't bring your speciest attitude in here! If a Eric wants to sound like a Mosquito, let Eric sound like a Mosquito. Who are you to judge?

[@jauxro]

@@DanReeder1337 the accent is really difficult ok

[@T3hKa5]

Matt is amazing as always, but watching the childlike wonder on Mr. Colbert's face is the highlight of this whole video.

[@Dao4deuce]

His earnest enthusiasm and obvious appreciation of Matt's work is so refreshing.

[@joelgermany1236]

@Dr. Phil's creampie lounge I feel like you're projecting.

[@Eunostos]

@Dr. Phil's creampie lounge Even if that were literally true it'd be a less disgusting fetish than the one you're declaring you like that username.

[@aaronoetting9129]

100% Steven's joy is the best

[@trashbo4t285]

I think we would all be like Stephen- smiling ear to ear while staring lovingly into Mercer's eyes.

[@rivoso8044]

Are you implying we don't already?

[@linkfan160]

My god Matt is such an amazing DM. There aren't any models or anything to represent what's happening in the game but you can imagine what's happening so damn vividly based only on what he's describing. And you can tell Stephen is having a blast. I hope to be as good as he is one day.

[@SpydersByte]

"dem some bones! Something died, and those were in 'em!" I lost my shit :'D

[@mortuos557]

I sincerely hope you sat on the toilet while watching this 😂

[@acahades]

Can we just take a minute to talk about Matt's Bee voice?!?! What a monster of a voice actor

[@fain0077]

I was thinking the exact something....

[@JohnRider]

Excellent sound effects. 🐝

[@dehro]

Watch him play the hamster Boo

[@tylerbarrett5]

@Dr. Phil's creampie lounge that's exactly what It's doing. Bees communicate through vibrations. That's why when angry they sound louder. Bees also don't have vocal cords so talking by buzzing is about as realistic as it gets.

[@waterunderthebridge7950]

Bees don’t really communicate to each other through vibrations. They secrete pheromones and do special dances in circle patterns to communicate e.g. where a good source of pollen and nectar is.

[@CheezeSailor]

He knew to go straight for the lich phylactery. That man knows his lore.

[@khurelbatbayanbat7913]

Stephen Colbert, walking encyclopedia on Tolkien and fantasy.

[@alyxholder8773]

It's been said a thousand times before, but I love the pure glee on Stephen's face as he narrowly manages to cross the bridge.

[@CaptCoolTime]

When Eric took the rope and fell and Matt said, "No, ...he's a bee." I laughed so hard!!!

[@beardedghostgaming4577]

I always love it when he tells people that they can try something even when he knows that it's just going to fail. Probably a little but of glee when they actually try it and he just goes "Nope".

[@justinz9225]

Sign of a good DM. You can try whatever you want. But if it's destined to fail, I won't even let you roll.

[@thedarkness125]

@@justinz9225 you are aware that is the same as saying no right? Sometimes you have to say no, like my players thinking they could make a high pressure water cannon out of a bag of holding last weekend. However not saying no isnt "a sign of a good DM." Knowing when to say no is.

[@gagglegoose]

@@thedarkness125 It creates memories and hilarious moments if the DM lets players try out things that are doomed to fail. Saying no can make the players feel more limited to what they can actually try to do in their fantasy world. Its all about the fun and having a moment where the players try something very uncanny and obviously fail doing it can create something special that all the players and their characters can share.

[@justinz9225]

@@thedarkness125 No, it's not the same as saying "no". They're only similar in technical outcome, but NOT the same in player dynamics and interaction; you know, the important part of a game. DnD is not a video game. The players can do whatever they want. So if they say, "can I do this", the answer is never, EVER, "no". The answer is "you can certainly try". Saying "no" ends the conversation and the fun. Saying "you can try" encourages the fun of failure. Which, in game theory, is one of the pinnacle goals. If your players can have fun WHILE failing, you are doing a good job. The opposite is true too. If they're not having fun while succeeding, you're generally in what's called a "slog".

[@Morphineus]

"I hope we can do this again sometime" - Stephen Colbert 51:18 . Yes, a Stephen Colbert guest appearance on Critical Role would be much appreciated, thank you.

[@SpydersByte]

that would be amazing!

[@almsthvn]

Stephen Colbert and Joe Manganiello together, please! kzbin.info/www/bejne/pnWTlqOroZd7b5Y

[@andrewxc1335]

But at current level, so he’ll get Spurt’ed.

[@andrewxc1335]

Right, because CR doesn't already get hate for their message of inclusion and loving each other.

[@DerakosZrux]

@@georgeramos2796 Because CR's viewership is mostly conservative? Are you on crack?

[@lvht1948]

Five minutes of Stephen and Matt reminiscing about where they started playing was not wasted time. Totally engaging.

[@DrTenochtitlan]

"Nowhere in the universe is there as much onyx and obsidian as there is in a D&D module." Truth.

[@Freckris]

CRYING FOR ERIC THE BEE. MIGHTY AND FLIGHTY AND MOSTLY OUT OF SIGHTY: ERIC THE BEE

[@iansediting]

RIP ERIC

[@saikanji9570]

THE MIGHTIEST, FLIGHTIEST, AND MOSTLY OUT-OF-SIGHTIEST OF BEES: ERIC!

[@Freckris]

@@saikanji9570 We have immortalized his sacrifice in song. May we never forget

[@KVCunknown]

Just when you thought you'd heard every possible NPC from Matt Mercer, he pulls out Eric the Bee... incredible...

[@cindywomack1113]

His Boo the Giant Space Hamster (?) in the DND Descent stream is EPIC!

[@jonassaxvik2979]

#unexpectedmontypython

[@jessb6197]

He's an NPBee!

[@JohnSmith-ox3gy]

OC donot steal.

[@p.chavez2839]

@@cindywomack1113 WAIT WHAT HE USES BOO? I gotta see that. GO FOR THE EYES BOO, GO FOR THE EYES

[@gomiho91]

I absolutely love how paranoid Stephen was from the beginning! Very obvious he's definitely played old-school D&D the Gygaxian way haha

[@CarloGoiff666]

17:46 - That's a kid's face. Pure smile and joy. Wonderful moment.